ABSTRACT
Irish economic growth has been well-balanced, with indigenous and overseas sectors exhibiting robust growth in both manufacturing and services. Two long-term trends have dictated the pace of economic growth in Ireland, the rising quantity and quality of labour supply. Labour market planning began in Ireland with the assistance of outside intervention, involving the OECD. Owing to changes in workplace practices, advances in technology, as well as global competition, many countries have to reform their training systems in an attempt to implement policies and strategies that are more effective and efficient at meeting local labour market needs. With regard to how the demands for labour and training are communicated Forfas coordinates the work of the development agencies — Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, FAS — through a series of formal and informal working arrangements. Forfas is the national policy and advisory board for enterprise, trade, science, technology and innovation.
